Services Set For Former Oak Forest Mayor James Jesk, Jr.

OAK FOREST, IL — Former mayor of Oak Forest James W. Jesk died on Nov. 10, according to his family. The 89-year-old served as mayor from 1975 to 1985.

Jesk's service to the city is recognized in a park bearing his name at 15500 Ridgeland Avenue. Jesk, formerly of Lemont, worked for Andrew Corporation after his time as mayor and later went on to found Deerfield Construction Group and Sawgrass Farms.

Jesk was a skilled harness racer and loved to collect sports memorabilia, according to loved ones. As a veteran of the U.S. Navy, he liked to share stories from his service and spend time with his Yorkshire Terrier, Molly.

"James' subtle, yet powerful, voice made a difference in many lives," family wrote in his obituary. "Those who knew him will remember him by his overwhelming generosity and quick-witted personality."

A visitation will be held Tuesday, Nov. 16 at Kurtz Memorial Chapel in Frankfort from 3 - 8 p.m. A funeral service will follow on Nov. 17 at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, family asks donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.